Homework Policy

Mrs. Enos’ Homework Policy
English 7
Philosophy:
- developed by the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory (2005) found on http:// www.netc.org/focus/strategies/home.php

• Homework provides time outside of the classroom for students to practice and deepen their understanding of the content being presented in class.
o Homework is meant to be set at an appropriate level based on a student’s prior knowledge or level of exposure to specific content.
• Regardless of student ability or prior coursework, the amount of time students actively and attentively devote to homework increases their achievement.(Keith & Cool, 1992)
• Feedback will be given along with a grade for all turned in homework assignments.
• Parent Involvement:
o Parents should set regular time frames, a place to focus, and clear expectations for where and when their children will work on homework.
o Encourage the following skills with your child throughout the school year: responsibility, confidence, persistence, goal-setting, and planning.
 Facilitate homework completion, not teach content
o Encouraging healthy study habits supports learning. Not only will your child see and feel the reward for his/her efforts, but they will grow in their ability to effectively handle areas of difficulty (Bempechat 2004).

Grading: assignment grades are based on total points—every assignment counts
• A = 100% - 93%
• B = 92% - 86%
• C = 85% -78%
• D = 77% -70%
• F = 69% - Below
• You will receive two days for every one day missed of class to make up any homework that was given/assigned the day of your absence.

Procedures/Rules:

• Late Homework: If you homework is not completed at the time it is due, you may turn it in the next day at the beginning of class, completed, for a maximum score or 80% (C). It may still be turned in for a passing grade if completed two days after the original deadline for a 70% (D-). If completed work is turned in three days after the deadline to the end of the quarter, the student can earn a maximum of 50% on the assignment.



Extra Credit:

• Bonus point opportunities will be given before most quizzes and tests on review days.

• If there are events at the school/community that are English-related, then extra credit towards your final grade will be developed as both an opportunity for continued learning and a way to improve your grade in class. There cannot be any missing homework in the grade book in order to receive extra credit points.

Graphic Organizer

While reading "Amigo Brothers" the two main characters, Felix & Antonio were compared and contrasted through the following chart during the climatic point/fight in the short story.

ROUND FELIX ANTONIO
_________________________________________________________________________
One
(begins on line 216)





_________________________________________________________________________
Two
(begins on line 250)





_________________________________________________________________________
Three
(begins on line 298)






________________________________________________________________________

Wednesday Wars Connection

In the novel Wednesday Wars, that I read to you to begin class, the protagonist/main character, Holling gave Mrs. Baker, his English teacher, tips/advice on what to do and not do in the classroom ("don't roll your eyes, don't cross your arms, and use code words when a student does something really well/praise them"). What is an important piece of advice you'd give to teachers that you feel would improve your education as a student(seriously) and why.

For example, please avoid suggestions such as: "Give me an "A" even if I don't turn in my homework." What do you feel is missing right now that you would like to see more of, or teaching practices that you think need to be changed/eliminated altogether. Make sure to support your opinion (please shoot for a 2-3 sentence response at least in order to elaborate on your ideas).

What book have you read this year that you think every 7th grader should read?

What book have you read this year that you think every 7th grader should read?

I'm currently reading Pendragon by D.J. MacHale (the first book in the Pendragon series --there's ten books total), because one of my students suggested it to me. She's even letting me read her own personal copy! Even though the fantasy genre has never been my favorite, this book is great! The narrator (teen boy perspective) speaks and thinks in a very blunt/matter-of-fact manner that is extremely down-to-earth, refreshing, and hilarious to read. What should I read next?